In January 2020, Community Corporation acquired our rent-controlled building from the original owner, who had neglected to make regular renovations to keep it up to modern standards. They assured us that all existing tenants could remain in their homes and that much-needed improvements would be made to enhance the property. For decades, our building has been home to a diverse, close-knit community of families, seniors, and long-term residents who have built their lives here.

However, despite years of efforts to secure funding for these promised renovations, CCSM has been unable to move forward with the rehabilitation. Now, instead of investing in repairs, there is a real risk that our building will be demolished, displacing over 100 tenants of whom have called Virginia Ave. home for generations.

We are now fighting to preserve our homes, to stay in our community, and ensure that the original commitment made to residents is honored.

It would be devastating for these low-income families to be displaced after generations of calling this building home. We fear that without the city’s support in preserving our community, this pattern will continue across the city. If we are forced to leave, finding affordable housing near our children’s schools, workplaces, essential healthcare facilities, and, most importantly, our beloved Santa Monica community would be nearly impossible.

WHY THIS MATTERS: 
 1. Affordable housing is disappearing in Santa Monica. If our building is demolished, it sets a dangerous precedent for other rent-controlled properties.

2. Families, seniors, and low-income residents will be forced out. Many of us cannot afford to relocate near our jobs, our children’s schools, or essential healthcare.

3.Santa Monica must protect its long-term residents. We are the heart of this city, and we deserve to stay in our homes.

PLEASE SIGN this petition to demand that the City of Santa Monica and CCSM take action to preserve our homes and protect our community & JOIN US ON FEBRUARY 25TH AT SANTA MONICA CITY HALL @ 5:30PM, WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT! If you'd like to learn more about our building check out our website: https://www.keepsmlocal.org/